Laparoscopic Surgery for Esophageal Cancer and High Grade Dysplasia
Esophageal cancer affects more men and women in the United States than ever before. Although not as common as other types of cancer, such as of the breast or lung, it is estimated that over 10,000 Americans are diagnosed with cancer of the esophagus each year. Resection of the esophagus for cancer has traditionally required a thoracotomy, an incision in the chest, as well as a laparotomy or an abdominal incision. These incisions offer maximal exposure, however may contribute to significant post operative pain and pulmonary complications including pneumonia.

Laparoscopy and thoracoscopy offer an alternative to conventional open surgery for the treatment of early esophageal cancer or dysplasia. Small incisions are placed in the chest and abdomen through dwhich telescopes are placed to visualize, manipulate, and remove the esophagus and surrounding lymph nodes. We are currently performing a minimal access approach for those patients with early esophageal cancer or dysplasia and have been deeply involved with the development of a robotic system to further improve our techniques.

Most patients following minimal access esophagectomy can anticipate a shorter length of stay in comparison with conventional resection. We are hopeful that those patients who undergo this approach will have improved breathing function earlier as a result of the less invasive and less painful procedure. We have also noted a decrease in the need for narcotics in patients who have undergone a minimal access approach. Overall, we have been impressed by the decreased length of stay and have also noted a decrease in pain in our patients in comparison with patients who have undergone the traditional open approach. We are excited by the future technical advances which will allow us to offer this novel approach to even more patients.